BOOK SPRING COTTAGE IN SUSSEX
£800
- Description
- Itinerary
- WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES
- WHERE WILL YOU STAY?
- Concierge
- Additional information
- Reviews (37)
Description
BOOK SPRING COTTAGE
Relax in the Heart of the Sussex Countryside
Stay in a cosy, comfortable cottage in a beautiful West Sussex village. Rustic Escapes offers our guests much more than just a house – come and see for yourself!
See the review in Yours online https://www.yours.co.uk/travel/holidays/articles/spring-cottage-amberley-review
One week for 6 people from £30 per person per night. Minimum stay 2 nights.
Includes a welcome from our local representative and a welcome hamper.
Please refer to WHAT’S INCLUDED for full details.
Stay in Spring Cottage, our comfortable, historic cottage in the beautiful country village of Amberley in West Sussex. Relax in the house and garden overlooking the Wildbrooks Nature Reserve or explore the many delights of Sussex. Stroll around the village, down to the river or to the castle and visit the local pubs, tea room and shop where you can purchase fresh local produce. There is a direct train service from Amberley to London and Gatwick (the train station is within easy walking distance from the cottage) and there are bus connections to local towns.
The area offers a myriad of experiences for you to enjoy, including many notable historic houses and castles and beautiful gardens to explore. Details of these can be found in the section entitled Additional Experiences and our local representative will be happy to provide you with information about these and many other places of interest to visit during your stay.
RUSTIC ESCAPES SPECIALISES IN OFFERING A COMPLETE CONCIERGE SERVICE; ACCOMPANYING YOU TO HOUSES AND CASTLES, GARDENS AND NATURAL PARKS; ARRANGING EXPERIENCES AND ESCAPES TO EXPLORE BOTH NATURAL SUSSEX AND ITS FASCINATING CULTURAL AND AGRICULTURAL HISTORY. Should you wish, we can accompany you daily on your visits to ensure you make the most of your stay. Speak to our reservations advisor for personalised concierge services, our drop-off service, airport collection and Additional Experiences or book an one of our ´Escapes´with experiences included daily and concierge accompaniment, transporting you and accompanying you and looking after the details, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your stay.
SEE OTHER ESCAPES TO ´ENJOY SUSSEX´
TO BOOK FOR CHRISTMAS , NEW YEAR , VALENTINES WEEKEND. GOODWOOD REVIVAL AND FESTIVAL OF SPEED SEE ´SPECIAL ESCAPES´
Day 1 Arrival The local representative can tell you all about the local places of interest that you can visit. You can book us to collect you each morning and accompany you to visit local historic houses, gardens and towns, ensuring that you make the most of your stay. There is also a daily drop-off service should you wish to book this. Please ask our reservations advisors about our concierge service. If you would like us to accompany you to places of interest, you may like to refer to ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES for some ideas. You can enjoy a walk down to the river or up into the South Downs or simply relax in the garden or on the decking which overlooks the Wildbrooks Nature Reserve. There is a cutting garden for you to pick your own flowers and an open air hot tub for evening stargazing enjoying a glass of local sparkling wine. Or soak in a roll top bath then enjoy a cosy afternoon in front of the fire. You may wish to simply relax and take it easy in the garden or on the decking, strolling around the village, down to the river and around the local countryside. You can visit local pubs, the tea rooms, castle and shop to buy fresh local produce. The Bridge Inn is great for lunch, and is a short stroll down to the river. The 16th century pub The George & Dragon is also lovely, with a roaring fire in the bar for the winter and a deck overlooking the fields for the summer. A few yards from Spring Cottage is Amberley Black Horse pub serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (as does the 11th century Amberley Castle, reached through a little gate by the 12th century church.) The train station is within walking distance from the cottage and there is a direct train service from Amberley to destinations such as Horsham (a lovely town with a good variety of shops, large and small) Gatwick Airport, London Victoria, Bognor Regis and Arundel (a lovely, historic town with lovely antique shops, a butchers and delicatsesen open since 1765, a river, lake, bird sanctuary castle and cathedral. Good pubs and restaurants). However you decide to enjoy your time in Amberley our local representative will be on hand should you need anything. Day 2 Rustic Escapes offers a discretionary concierge and drop-off service which can be charged separately and arranged for specific days either prior to arrival or during the first day, when the local representative will be available to give guests an overview of all the experiences on offer. The concierge can accompany guests on all experiences. Alternately the local representative can offer a drop-off service to and from places of interest.
You will be welcomed at Spring Cottage by Rustic Escape’s local representative who will give you an overview of experiences and places to visit in the local area. Chauffeur collection from Gatwick Airport is available – contact us for prices.
You plan your own itinerary on this escape but remember we are here to help you. We have lots of ideas – there is something for everyone. Please refer to ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES or BOOK ´ENJOY SUSSEX´AND LET US ACCOMPANY YOU TO HOUSES, CASTLES, GARDENS AND ANTIQUE FAIRS, EXPERIENCING SUSSEX AS NEVER BEFORE; LETTING US LOOK AFTER THE DETAILS,LEAVING YOU FREE TO RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR STAY. See ´Enjoy Sussex´escape or speak to one of our Reservations advisors.
Included
Our Reservations Team can help you to plan your escape and select experiences. Contact us for any details.
Amberley Castle
Amberley Castle
With records dating back to 683AD this castle has a rich and varied history. Now a hotel combining ancient architecture with modern design, you can visit for traditional afternoon tea, lunch or dinner. It is a short easy walk from Spring Cottage.
Arundel Castle, cathedral, town, and wetlands
Arundel Castle, cathedral, town, and wetlands
Experience almost 1,000 years of history at this great castle, situated in magnificent grounds and built at the end of the 11th century. Continue your vist to Arundel by visiting the imposing Roman Catholic Cathedral, antique shops and art galleries.
Chichester
Chichester
Chichester blends old with new with its cathedral, shopping, annual flower festival and cultural opportunities including Chichester Festival Theatre. Near to Goodwood, the Weald and Downland Museum and West Dean Gardens.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a historic port and a dynamic waterfront city. The historic dockyard is the UK’s premier destination for naval history. Inside you will find attractions including Lord Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory and the National Museum of the Royal Navy. You can also get out onto the water on the Harbour Tour excursions.
Horsham
Horsham
Horsham is a good centre for shopping and a historic centre where you can have lunch or a drink.
Denmans Garden
Denmans Garden
Denmans Garden started as a market garden in 1946 to grow vegetables and cut flowers for the Covent Garden Market in London. Having been redesigned by John Brookes, it is now a timeless, contemporary garden with unusual plantings and quiet places to contemplate.
High Beeches Garden
High Beeches Garden
This Woodland and water garden is one of Sussex’s finest gardens with a collection of rare, exotic and award-winning plants.
Anne of Cleves House
Anne of Cleves House
Explore how the Tudors and Elizabethans lived, worked and relaxed at home. Learn the story of one of England’s most famous kings, Henry VIII.
Parham House and Gardens
Parham House and Gardens
Parham is one of England’s finest Elizabethan houses (dating from 1577) that has changed little over the centuries and is set in beautiful gardens Combine with a visit to Brighton, Horsham or Petworth.
Petworth House and Gardens
Petworth House and Gardens
Petworth House is a stately 17th century mansion housing the finest art collection in the care of the National Trust. The town of Petworth is well-known for its antique shops.
Weald and Downland Living Museum
Weald and Downland Living Museum
Discover rescued rural homes and buildings which tell the stories of the people who lived and worked in them for over 1000 years. There is also an opportunity to book rural and historic-themed workshops.
Bignor Roman Villa
Bignor Roman Villa
See the stunning remains of this Roman home with world-class mosaic floors in the heart of the South Downs National Park.
Brighton
Brighton
The Georgian town of Brighton attracts many visitors to see the pier, The Royal Pavilion (built by George VI) and the elegant houses of this seaside town. There are countless bars and restaurants, excellent shopping in big shops or in the independent shops of the Lanes.
London
London
Founded by the Romans as Londinium in 45BC with the River Thames running through it, London is the political and economic capital of England. The price quoted is to travel by train from Amberley (journey time of 1hour 40minutes from Amberley Station. Your concierge can help you to plan your visit in advance if you would like recommendations.
Fishbourne Roman Palace
Mosaicos de Fishbourne
Enjoy the luxury that would once have surrounded the proud owner of this lavish Roman residence. Stroll around the recreated Roman gardens – the earliest gardens found anywhere in the country – and enjoy the largest collection of mosaics in situ in the UK.
Nymans
Nymans
A garden lovers’ home for all seasons, with an extensive yet intimate garden set around a romantic house and ruins.
RSPB Pulborough Brooks Nature Reserve
RSPB Pulborough Brooks Nature Reserve
Pulborough Brooks is an RSPB nature reserve that is situated within 420 acres of the South Downs National Park and is one of the south east’s most impressive wetlands. The nature reserve and visitors centre is open all year round and is a haven for wildlife.
Sheffield Park and Gardens
Sheffield Park and Gardens
Acres of landscape garden bordered by historic parkland and woodland.
South Downs Natural Park
South Downs Natural Park
Spring Cottage in Amberley is situated on the route called the South Downs Way. This is a famous path from Eastbourne to Winchester that crosses the rolling hills of the South Downs. Walk some of the 120km of the South Downs Way which ends in Winchester, the ancient capital of England.
Wakehurst
Wakehurst
A botanical garden with the world’s largest seed conservation project. Funded and managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. An Elizabethan mansion stands in 500 acres of ornamental gardens, woodlands and a nature reserve.
West Dean Gardens
West Dean Gardens
One of the greatest restored gardens open to the public today.
Combine with a visit to Chichester or Weald and Downland Museum.
Arundel Wetlands Centre
Arundel Wetlands Centre
Stroll along gentle pathways to quiet spots to watch Sussex wildlife and take a boat trip among the reeds. A relaxing way to spend a couple of hours and of course great for birdwatching.
Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve
Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve
Our guests are lucky to be staying in the Amberley Wildbrooks Nature reserve and can look for deer, foxes, pheasants and many other animals from Spring Cottage.
Spring Cottage is a much-loved family home which has been decorated in traditional English style with pretty colours and antique furniture. The country kitchen (with Smeg fridge and range cooker) offers all facilities to prepare your own meals if you wish to eat at home. The dining area in the sitting room features a large Georgian mahogany table and chairs and grandfather clock. There is a large fireplace for colder evenings flanked by comfortable armchairs and a beautiful Liberty’s chaise longue with a television, DVD player and internet-based film and TV streaming. Each of the three bedrooms has a double bed and they are served by two bathrooms (including showers and a roll-top bath). The downstairs bedroom and bathroom are suitable for guests with limited mobility.
A secluded courtyard leads off the kitchen and glazed doors open from the dining area to a large terrace with swing-seat and the terraced garden overlooking Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve. The views from here and from the upstairs master bedroom are wonderful and you can sit for hours watching the wildlife and enjoying nature. The garden is such a special place. Steps lead down from the terrace and on each level, you can stop to cut your own flowers or maybe sit in the hot tub while you enjoy those views.
When it’s cold you can light the fire in the sitting-room and enjoy a cosy winter evening with a good book or maybe drink a glass of English wine or beer under the stars from the warmth of the hot tub. We cater for all weathers by offering our guests a selection of umbrellas, jackets, scarves and wellies during their stay.
Your local representative will be waiting to greet you on arrival. Our concierge will answer any questions and advise you – not only recommending restaurants and local pubs but also can organise your visits to cultural or sporting events, theatres, musicals and many other events.
Amberley Village Stores supplies quality local and fresh produce and is just around the corner from the cottage.
If you would like any information about our escapes or our concierge service, just get in touch. Our reservation team will help ensure your stay is interesting, enjoyable and relaxing. During your stay, just speak to your concierge to change or add to your programme.
Amberley is a quintessentially English country village near Arundel in West Sussex with thatched cottages, old brick and tilework and flowers everywhere you look.Nestled in the rolling hills of the South Downs, the village is surrounded by the wetlands of Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve, important for its wild deer, pheasants and a wide variety of migratory birds from across the globe.
This country village has its own castle, and XIIth century church. It also boasts its own pub and tearoom (serving delicious home-made cakes) and Amberley Village Stores with its friendly service and local fresh produce which can be delivered to your door (and the recent winner of the South East regional category for the best village shop/Post Office in the Countryside Alliance Awards).
AMBERLEY, SUSSEX
Walk up to Amberley Mount with its steep climb up to the South Downs Way or stroll along a section of the beautiful River Arun which is so atmospheric when shrouded in mist. Walk, cycle or horse-ride part of the South Downs National Park which offers 1,600km2 of breath-taking views or pause at night to appreciate the world’s newest International Dark Sky Reserve and enjoy the star-studded skies. If you are feeling more adventurous, guests can request paddle and surf board for use on the river or sea which is only ten minutes away by car. Accompanied river trips by boat can also be arranged from Arundel or by paddleboard from the nearby resort of Shoreham.
Participate in the annual Ale at Amberley (beer festival) with musical entertainment to enjoy and pop in to the Amberley Working Museum to see old agricultural and industrial machinery at work. Let us take you a little further afield to visit beautiful gardens, castles and old houses or to buy antiques or local crafts.
Spring Cottage is not far from Amberley train station and the short walk is a real pleasure. You feel you are miles from everything and time slows down as you are immersed in nature. Stop off en route for a drink or meal at one of the local pubs and you will know you have arrived!
Our concierge service offers a personal touch. The concierge will usually accompany you on your experiences or just drop you off and collect you later if you prefer. Of course they can also advise you where to eat, help you with shopping enquiries, assist in buying theatre tickets etc and answer specific questions you may have about your stay at Spring Cottage – little touches that make your stay comfortable and personal to you. (Note the concierge does not stay at the cottage with you.)
We can also offer a drop-off service should guests prefer to simply be transported to places of interest and then collected when they wish to return to the cottage or proceed to another experiences.
Many of our concierges speak both English and Spanish (and often French too).
Additional information
| Experiences | Food, Culture & Wellbeing, Sussex |
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Cheryl Cairns –
We had a fantastic stay in beautiful Spring Cottage. It was just what I’d hoped for; relaxing, cosy, comfortable, beautifully furnished and ideally located. We were lucky with the weather on most days which meant we could really enjoy the views and hot tub to their fullest. I had absolutely no desire to leave when our stay ended! Amberley is so pretty and the play park with large green is very close. The cottage had lots of lovely little extras that made the stay extra special – robes, jars of flowers dotted around, coffee capsules etc. We felt really well looked after by Rustic Escape’s exceptional service.
Mark Morris (verified owner) –
Hi everyone
Just to drop a line to say how much we thoroughly loved our time at Spring Cottage! Emma was a delight and so helpful
The cottage is AMAZING! The pictures really don’t do it justice. We didn’t want to leave
Thank you to everyone (Ella) for their prompt responses to every one of my enquiries
We will be back
Regards
Mark
Lynn Chambers –
Fabulous and quirky place to stay. Amazing views, great host (Emma) who met us on arrival and made us feel very welcome. Amberley and the South Downs is absolutely beautiful.
Maria –
We booked to stay here for my sisters 40th birthday… We all had the best time, it was perfection. Emma met us and showed us around.. left us a beautiful hamper. Emma was so lovely and very helpful. Thank you Emma for making our stay extra special. The house had everything we wanted, it was immaculate! Beautiful place and I can´t wait to return. You will not be disappointed if you book. Maria from Surrey
Claire Yarwood –
We loved the extensive decking and hot tub, which enabled us to enjoy the late September sunshine . The views were awesome and very calming. The house is in a very quiet village with two local pubs.. We ate both nights at the Black Horse and could not fault either food or atmosphere. The house was beautifully clean and the concierge Emma extremely helpful , great to know you have someone to contact should you need any help. We would definitely visit again if in the area.
Elizabeth Ford –
We had such a lovely stay at Tracy’s cottage. The location was beautiful & the hot tub was fantastic. The hamper provided was also a very thoughtful touch! Highly recommend for a relaxing getaway.
Chia Mahmood –
We had a lovely stay at the end of October 2020 at Spring Cottage. The village is extremely quaint in the heart of the South Downs with amazing pubs (the Black Horse being a highlight and is stumbling distance). The place itself is everything you could want from a country getaway; from an outstanding view of the South Downs right from the living room window and outside patio, to a roaring fireplace and of course the highlight being the jacuzzi which also shares the stunning views. A special mention to Emma who greeted us when arriving. She was bubbly, bright, extremely helpful and put us all at ease showing us all the amenities needed for the trip. 100% would visit again, any time of year.
Robert Haegens –
Amazing cottage, well kept, brilliant views. We had a fantastic time at the cottage. The extra little birthday treats for my wife was a nice touch. I found conversation with Emma entertaining and she was great with the kids. Thanks so much for letting us stay and we had such a fun time. The view was amazing and especially fun from the hottub! Perfect getaway, thanks so much.
Nicky Hannon –
Amazing long weekend in an absolutely beautiful house. Such a warm, welcoming, and unique home with so much attention to detail. We will definitely return and I would recommend to anyone who needs some luxury in their life. (April 2021)
Jade Hughes –
We had an amazing stay at spring cottage. The cottage is absolutely beautiful and the views of the fields with the sheep are just stunning. Loved the hot tub and dining on the veranda overlooking the views was just perfect. Hosts were amazing and communication was great. The cottage had everything we could ever need for the weekend and you could really tell the hosts had thought of everything to make us comfortable. The cottage was also sparkling clean We had the most perfect stay, Thank you!! (Mayo 2021)
Jody Vyner (verified owner) –
What a lovely place! Beautiful views and a lovely space. The host was very friendly and always replied to any questions d had. Very welcoming. (Mayo 2021)
Kim Golding –
We had a great weekend staying in this lovely house. The views are amazing and the village of Amberley is so picturesque. A handy village shop and fabulous pub are just around the corner. Emma is on hand with advice and support for anything you need and went out of her way to make sure we even had a coffee machine available ! All in all a super stay! (May 2021)
Scott –
Wonderful escape for a week, made lots of use of the hot tub. Fantastic views and wonderful host. Thank you. (August 2020)
Toby –
Thank you so much for sharing your gorgeous home, we don’t want to go home! The view and the hot tub are immense. We will be back (August 2020)
Mira –
What a lovely place to come and hideaway for a few days. Very comfortable and relaxing. Emma has made this place very pleasant and taken time to make sure the little details matter. Amazing place!! Thanks Emma (August 2020)
Tom –
The beds and pillows were AMAZING!! Lovely evening spent in the hot tub. We visited the Arundel Castle gardens which are a must see. Emma was helpful and has made this a great place to stay. Simply FABULOUS!! ( August 2020)
Joanne and Peter –
A lovely relaxing stay in your comfortable cottage (August 2020)
Chris –
Thank you for sharing your magnificent home with us. Our visit has been sublime and a rejuvenating retreat, the perfect setting for relaxation. All the care and amenities were supremely appreciated. We would love to come back again (August 2020)
Ami and friends –
Thank you for having us! We had such a great and restful weekend away post-lockdown to celebrate a birthday. We really enjoyed having meals on the terrace and cooking in the very well-stocked kitchen. The hot tub was great too! We also paid a visit to Stopham Vineyard which we would highly recommend. Thank you to the Rustic Escapes team! (August 2020)
Palmer family –
A wonderful relaxing stay. We have really enjoyed our break in Amberley. Spring Cottage is just lovely with beautiful views and everything one could need. Thank you to Nic also for being so welcoming. The hamper was a welcome addition also. Many thanks. (August 2020)
Sue –
Idyllic position, beautifully appointed and maintained – wonderful hot-tub. Thank you to all. (July 2020)
Jackie –
A lovely cottage and wonderful home. No wonder everyone loves it. I want to stay for ever! This trip was for my birthday (85th) – my two daughters brought me and what a wonderful treat. I love the garden, so peaceful. Thank you. (July 2020)
Martha –
Wow, what a great week. Amazing walks, Black Rabbit and Bridge pub, boating from Riverside and the amazing Castle gardens in Arundel. … A massive hit! Thanks. (July 2020)
Simon –
A wonderful stay at Spring Cottage. We love the hot-tub and the amazing views. Thank you Emma – on arrival my son thought you were ‘really nice and funny’! (July 2020)
Kristo –
Truly the best Airbnb I’ve ever rented. This house massively over-delivered on the pictures, the view is breathtaking and you’re not overlooked at all. An amazing house in an amazing location. The house was sparking clean when we arrived, with a wonderful welcome hamper of goodies. We absolutely loved the Jacuzzi, which was crystal clear and perfectly clean. The terrace and garden were just delightful. We were welcomed by Emma, who really made us feel welcome and at home. She went out of her way to make sure we had everything we needed. Amberley has to be the most hospitable village I have ever been with two amazing pubs. booking in to the Black Horse for dinner, the garden is beautiful and the food is fabulous. Highly recommend It’s also a perfect spot for running/ cycling.
Corrina Donegan –
We had the privilege to visit spring cottage for one night at the end of January. It was a Thursday night, and we arrived at Amberley station not really knowing what to expect.
Steve kindly met us at the station, and promptly drove us to the cottage, with a little tour of Amberley village thrown in too!
The cottage itself is magnificent, from the outside it looks so small, but as soon as the front door opened, we were stunned. Steve gave us a welcome tour of the cottage and he was so kind, welcoming and informative – nothing was too much trouble.
The cottage is beautiful, with such care and attention paid to every little thing. There are 3 bedrooms, all of which are dressed to an amazing standard, so we had the choice of where to sleep – the upstairs bedroom has the most amazing views over the heathland which dominates the vista behind the cottage.
The welcome basket was a lovely touch and the lounge was comfortable, relaxing and chilled. Our only regret was that we didnt have eough time to light the log burner in the ingelnook fireplace.
One of the best parts of spring cottage was the incredible deck, accessed via the lounge. The space is amazing, and the landscape and surrounding areas are incredible to look over whilst relaxing on the outside table and chairs, in the middle of the deck.
Whilst sat on the deck, we saw so many different birds, deer and wildlife – a stay at spring cottage would be a twitchers delight.
Even though it was the end of January, we ventured to the hot tub, located down the beautiful tiered garden and what a treat it was! the water was warm but not too hot, it was lovely!
We went for dinner in the local pub which is 5 minutes away, and visited the only village shop ( which has everything you need and it is wonderfully quaint) and everyone we met in the village or the pub were welcoming and kind.
We both had a wonderful time and would go back tomorrow if we could – we are already looking at booking in the summer – spring cottage would easily cater for 6+ people.
We cannot recommend a stay at spring cottage highly enough – it was the highlight of the year for us so far!
Vicente T –
We stayed at Spring Cottage in the adorable village of Amberley, the perfect spot to chill out. Situated right on the edge of the Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve, it perfectly meets the idea of a traditional English village with its individual cottages with thatched roofs and rose-covered archways with cottage garden plants. … Read More at https://www.yours.co.uk/travel/holidays/articles/spring-cottage-amberley-review?rq=spring%20cottage
James Hudson –
We spent three days in the house and visited the surrounding places. They were three wonderful days surrounded by nature and contemplating the history of the towns of Sussex County. Without a doubt we will repeat the experience because it has served us to rest, disconnect from the routine and visit corners of absolute beauty.
The house is wonderful, it has everything that is necessary to spend a few days. Good kitchen with everything you need to cook or prepare a good breakfast. The house has two terraces, an interior with a table and chairs where you can have a quiet tea and another outside with a swing that offers splendid views of Wild Brooks Natural Reserve where from the house you can see several species of animals such as deer, ducks, etc. The rooms are very cosy, full of details and with their own bathroom. He really falls asleep and rests well after a day full of visits in the area. The dining room is very spacious. It has a large table for lunch or dinner and an area with sofas and armchairs where you can take a chance to watch a movie on TV or have a good chat with your fellow travellers.
In short, it is one of the best travel options we have tried. Culture, nature and relax all in one. Highly recommended
Taylor –
We absolutely enjoyed our stay from the minute we saw how beautiful the cottage was; each room has its own personality. The living room has a large glass door which leads to an enormous terrace overlooking the fields, where we enjoyed breakfast, while looking out for deer and pheasants.
As Arundel was very near, we decided to visit its famous medieval Castle and antique shops. We then finished the morning having lunch at the pub called “Black Rabbit” situated on the banks of the River Arun with stunning views over the wetlands to Arundel Castle.
Just a half an hour drive away you have the lovely Georgian town of Chichester were you must visit the Cathedral
Miguel Madero –
We enjoyed a long weekend at this country cottage located in Amberley, a cosy and comfortable house with everything you could wish for; roll top baths, a roaring fire, an outdoor Jacuzzi from which to gaze at the stars!
As the house was a short walking distance from Amberley train station were we decided to visit London which is just over an hour away by train.
You cannot leave without visiting Brighton and the “Brighton Lanes” situated in the central part of the town where you will find a collection of narrow lanes famous for their small shops.
Miguel M.
Brigitte and Kurt –
My husband and I had planned our trip to Amberley with the idea of enjoying a few days of relaxation in the country , taking this opportunity to visit nearby towns .
We had the privilege of staying at the Rustic Escape country cottage situated in Amberley, a village near Arundel, West Sussex.
The house was in a beautiful location and had everything we needed to make our stay comfortable. The views from the bedroom and living room were fantastic!
Amberley is one of those typically picturesque English villages, surrounded by lovely country walks and a river running through it and with a cosy pub down the road, in which to enjoy a hearty lunch after your walk.
We absolutely loved it and will return!
Taylor –
We absolutely enjoyed our stay from the minute we saw how beautiful the cottage was; each room has its own personality. The living room has a large glass door which leads to an enormous terrace overlooking the fields, where we enjoyed breakfast while looking out for deer and pheasants.
As Arundel was very near, we decided to visit its famous medieval Castle and antique shops. We then finished the morning having lunch at the pub called “Black Rabbit” situated on the banks of the River Arun with stunning views over the wetlands to Arundel Castle.
Just a half an hour drive away you have the lovely Georgian town of Chichester where you must visit the Cathedral
Joanna Travers –
I loved it! What a fabulous day at Parham House and gardens, enjoying Sarah Raven´s flower arranging workshop. The house and gardens themselves were a delight. While I have stayed at the Spring Cottage Rustic Escape before, enjoying visits to other gardens in the area, this was my first visit to the Tudor gardens and I really appreciated the guidance by my Rustic Escapes´concierge. I was able to identify and discover flowers and plants I had never seen and could really imagine life in the gardens as it must have been in the house´s hayday.
The flower demonstration was fascinating. The colours of each arrangement were beautiful.My mother thoroughly enjoyed the treat and took back to London bags full of seeds to start her own cutting garden! I bought home the notes and photographs I took and have been practicing ever since! I have attached them so that you can post them in a blog on your web; I really enjoyed the day and just wanted to say thank you to you all for such a lovely time.
Tanya Moravec –
Our Autumn Fungi Forage!
Rustic Escapes organised a fun day learning about mushrooms with Hunter Gather Cook in Ashdown Forest. It was a real outdoor adventure in wild food foraging and we enjoyed every moment.
The day began with an introduction to edible fungi from Nick and his expert team before we all headed into the heart of the forest to forage. The leaders (and their dog) astounded our small group with their knowledge from false caps to ceps and we came across types of fungi that we had never seen before. They told us the history, myths and science behind every species we found – well over 20 different types!
After a couple of hours spent exploring and identification, we returned to camp with full baskets of mushrooms and were welcomed with a hot Bloody Mary. Following a hands-on lesson in partridge butchery, the team set about cooking a delicious selection of dishes on an open fire including cep carpaccio, chanterelles with poached eggs and finally our own partridge, ballotined and served with local truffle.
In the afternoon we were treated to a fascinating demonstration of truffle hunting by the truffle-dog and picked up more tips on foraging for wild food from the team of experts.
All in all the experience was a true celebration of nature and a unique way to enjoy the countryside whilst learning new skills – ideal for any discerning cook or outdoor enthusiast.
Thank you Rustic Escapes – it was a great way to spend a Saturday in October!
Julia Craig –
Rustic Escapes booked us onto the Mill Experience in a 17th century watermill at The Weald and Downland Living Museum. We spent an interesting morning learning about the workings of this historic building and even made our own bag of flour to take home.
Rescued rural homes and buildings bring history to life at this extraordinary living museum in Sussex demonstrating the lives of the people who lived and worked in South East England over 1,000 years. Join their programme of traditional rural trades and crafts courses such as stone carving, blacksmith skills or participate in a medieval feast. Or just enjoy exploring the beautiful gardens and the woodland and seeing the farm animals – and don’t forget the ducks on the large lake!
After a walk around the grounds in the September sunshine, we were pleased to sit down for lunch in a local pub nearby – a 400 year old inn to be precise. Fish and chips and a traditional Sunday roast were washed down with half a pint of beer. Perfect! We walked off lunch with a leisurely stroll around the beautiful city of Chichester, did a spot of shopping, popped into the Cathedral and decided to return at a future date to see a play or musical at Chichester Festival Theatre.
The Weald and Downland Living Museum and Chichester are just a 20 minute drive from Rustic Escapes’ country cottage in Amberley. Your Concierge can accompany you and introduce you to this beautiful and historic part of Sussex. We would recommend it!
Nigel Watson –
What better way is there to relax after a day of sight-seeing and antique hunting than with a chilled glass of Prosecco in the bubbling jacuzzi looking out over the Amberley Wildbrooks Nature Reserve? I challenge you to find one!
Three days at Spring Cottage is the perfect de-stressing rustic escape, knowing that your every need is catered for – a welcome hamper of local Sussex produce presented to you on arrival, comfortable sofa and armchairs to curl up on, large TV with lots of channels and Netflix, drench shower, roll top bath and complimentary dressing gowns, slippers and toiletries… This is certainly not Airbnb and its more personal and bespoke than a hotel. There’s even a daily cleaning service and a well-stocked, pay-as-you-use larder and bar, so you could quite easily stay at the cottage for the 3 days and have everything you need and never even venture outside! But of course you do, either independently or using the concierge or drop-off service.
Our Concierge, Nick, took us to Anne of Cleves House and Lewes Castle as well as allowing us free time to wander the antique shops of Arundel and Petworth. He was friendly, knowledgeable and charming and nothing was too much trouble. We paid extra for a private chef to come in and cook us a 3-course meal on the Friday nights but there were pubs and restaurants nearby that Nick recommended that serve good food.
Saturday night was the highlight as Nick picked us up and drove us to Arundel Castle for an open-air performance of Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. Nick wasn’t merely our chauffeur but also acted as host for the evening, serving us the food and wine from the complimentary picnic hamper, choosing good seats for us in the open-air auditorium and giving us a synopsis of the story (Shakespeare is not our forte!).
The attention to detail at Spring Cottage is second to none – vases of fresh flowers, bottles of water in the bedrooms, local magazines to read, immaculate gardens. It’s a unique experience staying here and you leave feeling very special, having been looked after, pampered and spoilt.
Everyone needs a Rustic Escape more than once a year in their busy lives. We’re already planning our next trip!
Jennifer Hooliran –
Thank you Nick for my fabulous holiday in November. What an amazing time I had. The weather was chilly but you certainly warmed me up with your lovely kind and humorous company. I had a great time! The Ardingly fair was brilliant, those baskets I bought arrived fine, by the way, and I now wish I had bought more…there was so much to see. The day we spent with you driving through the Sussex countryside, visiting all of those little shops was super too. Let me know when Tooveys has its next live auction and I’m coming back! I’ld spend my life browsing round the antique shops with you if I could. Regards to Steve and Caroline, the local reps. They were sweet too. Thank you all for a memorable trip. I shall be back! Jennifer Hooliran